Ravens cut outside linebacker Sergio Kindle from practice squad

It was an unceremonious ending for outside linebacker Sergio Kindle’s career with the Ravens as the team cut Kindle from the practice squad on Monday after three unproductive years in Baltimore.

The Ravens once had high hopes for Kindle, drafting the former All-Big 12 pass rusher in the second round of the 2010 NFL draft. But Kindle’s career was derailed as a rookie when he fractured his skull during a fall down two flights of stairs the night before his first NFL training camp.

Although the former University of Texas star was eventually cleared to play football again after dealing with neurological problems from the accident, Kindle was never the same. He suffered permanent hearing damage in his left ear.

Now, Kindle's time in Baltimore comes to a close after recording his only career tackle in the second game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kindle was active for two games last season, but registered no statistics.

“That was a conversation that was between Sergio and I,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said when asked to explain cutting Kindle during the playoffs. “I think most of it should remain private, but it was positive. It was kind of mutually agreed upon between the two of us. It was nothing that he did or didn’t do. I told him I have high hopes for Sergio, I really do.

“He and I have gotten real close. I feel some responsibility for him and really want to see him do well. I really think he has a chance to be good in this league. I’ll be there to support him and do whatever we can to help him. He’s hoping for an opportunity somewhere where he can maybe take the next step.”

Harbaugh said Kindle will be replaced on the practice squad by a linebacker or an offensive lineman.

The Ravens cut Kindle from the active roster in October to create a roster spot when outside linebacker Terrell Suggs was activated from the non-football injury list, then re-signed Kindle to a $96,900 practice squad contract.

Kindle pleaded guilty in 2011 to a driving under the influence charge in Howard County stemming from his arrest in 2010 as a rookie, but that was the only off-field issue he dealt with during his tenure with the Ravens.

“It could be, but it hasn't,” Kindle said when asked earlier this season if he's frustrated. “Being frustrated isn't going to help, so why do it? I feel like there should be more motivation, but my motivation was never deterred regardless.”